Buick · Gen 1 · 2013–2019
Encorebuyer's guide
10 known faults — inspection procedures and real repair costs.
The Gen 1 Encore is a small SUV with a turbocharged engine that does not tolerate neglect well. Transmission shudder or harsh shifting is the first thing to check — a gearbox repair or replacement can hit $5,500, and many sellers have no invoices to prove the fluid was ever changed. Coolant leaks and overheating are the second deal-breaker: the 1.4T runs hot, and head-gasket damage from a single overheat episode can push the repair bill well beyond the value of the car.
This guide covers ten documented issues: transmission shudder or harsh shift, coolant leak or overheating, AWD/transfer case vibration, oil leak or consumption, infotainment/camera electrical faults, suspension knocks and tyre wear, brake corrosion or seized caliper, water leak or accident repair, ADAS/radar calibration fault, and recall/campaign status. Each fault has a field check and a real repair-cost range.
A clean, low-owner Gen 1 Encore with documented service history is a practical used buy. Skip the inspection steps and you are likely inheriting the previous owner's deferred maintenance bill.
By completing your purchase you consent to immediate delivery of this digital product. Once the download begins, your right of withdrawal is waived in accordance with our refund policy.